Inspired by Meagan's
spruced up basil pot, I started thinking about how to incorporate a little greenery into my
small space. Whether you're balcony-free (like me) or you're lucky enough to have a little terrace, you know that
gardening is different for apartment and condo dwellers. There will be no buying flats of impatiens to fill our front yards or detailed garden layouts to plan. Our task is to figure out how and where to fit in some spring and summer blooms without spilling
soil on the floor.
I've found five fun ways for the garden-less to display herbs and flowers in their home or on their balcony:
Planter Stands
If you have a balcony, a planter stand is a great way to make the most of the space you have because you can display a a collection of different plants while only taking up a bit of floor space.
I think this Cachepot stand would be perfect for growing edibles. Each herb and/or veggie could get its own pot and you'd get your own balcony version of a vegetable garden!
Metal Cachepot Stand, $129 USD, Pottery Barn.
Hanging Planters
Another way to make the most of your floor space is to hang your garden. I understand of course, that many landlords don't want holes drilled into balcony walls and ceilings so hanging planters aren't for everyone. If drilling holes isn't an option however, you could always pick up a stand or a hook that attaches to your railing.The brave among us may want to try these indoors, but if you want to keep your floors clean and dry, I wouldn't recommend it.
Mynta Hanging Planter, $14.99, Ikea.
Wire Basket
If you're lazy or have a black thumb (you kill plants like me), you may not want to even muck about with transferring seeds or plants from one pot to another.I like the idea of this cute wire basket. More suited for outdoors (where water can seep out the bottom), I'd buy plastic-potted plants from the store and disguise them behind the sunny yellow mesh of the basket. If you wanted to try this indoors, I'd invest in a simple plastic tray so you don't mess up your windowsill, kitchen counter or table.
Wire Basket, $34.95 USD, Crate and Barrel.
All-In-One Garden Kit
I love this mini rainboot garden from Fred Flare. And while you do have to plant the seeds yourself, it's a sacrifice I'd make and risk I'd take for this adorable boot. There are four varieties available: wild strawberry, mint, basil and chamomile but you don't have to buy this one in particular. Check your local garden centre or hardware store for seed and planter kits so you can give your thumb a green workout without too much mess, risk or money wasted. Plus, they're usually small and perfect for a windowsill.
Mini Rainboot Gardens, $14 USD, fredflare.com.
Recycled Kitchenware
Like the rainboot, the idea of a teacup garden is also super cute and convenient. The one pictured, is actually an oversized teacup you can buy for your plants but I prefer the super cheap and eco-friendly idea of recycling old teacups, sugar bowls and other kitchen accents and using them for mini planters. A line of sprouting teacups along a windowsill would look totally charming, if you ask me.
If you don't have any old porcelain (or ceramic or plastic) cups lying around, check out an antique or junk shop or your local thrift store.
Here are some quick and easy teacup garden instructions.
Charleston Chintz Cup & Saucer Planter, $29.95 USD, Victorian Trading Co.
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